What's happened
Pale auroras may be visible across northern U.S. states on Thursday and Friday, depending on solar storm intensity. Key states include Washington, Montana, and Michigan. The sun is currently at its maximum activity phase, increasing the likelihood of auroras.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, NOAA meteorologist Mike Bettwy noted that auroras could be seen across many northern states, emphasizing that visibility will depend on the intensity of the solar storms. The article highlights that the sun's current maximum phase increases the likelihood of such events. AP News echoed this sentiment, detailing the best states for aurora visibility and providing tips for optimal viewing conditions. Both sources agree on the lack of expected communication disruptions, contrasting with the severe geomagnetic storm warning issued earlier this year, which was the strongest in over two decades.
How we got here
The sun is in the maximum phase of its 11-year cycle, leading to increased solar activity. A recent pulse of high-energy plasma was directed towards Earth, enhancing the chances of auroras in the northern hemisphere.
Common question
-
Where Can You See the Northern Lights This Week?
The Northern Lights, or auroras, are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that many people dream of witnessing. This week, conditions are ripe for viewing these stunning displays across several northern U.S. states. But where exactly can you catch a glimpse, and what factors influence their visibility? Read on to find out more about the best locations and times to see the Northern Lights this week.
More on these topics
-
Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central and Western Europe. Covering an area of 357,022 square kilometres, it lies between the Baltic and North seas to the north, and the Alps to the south.
-
New York is a state in the Northeastern United States. New York was one of the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States. With more than 19 million residents in 2019, it is the fourth-most-populous state.
-
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
-
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is an American scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce that focuses on the conditions of the oceans, major waterways, and the atmosphere.
-
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is an independent agency of the U.S. Federal Government responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and space research.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.